Work will get underway this week on a new car park and public space for the vacant central Christchurch site in the city’s Performing Arts Precinct.
The 2081 square-metre section at 129 Gloucester Street is being developed by Christchurch City Council into a mixed-use site with temporary car parking and a public open space.
The site, located between the new Court Theatre and the Isaac Theatre Royal, will have 56 carparks and an additional five parks for mobility impaired patrons.
Head of Facilities and Property, Bruce Rendall says the start of work this week was a significant milestone in the development of the Precinct.
“This area has undergone huge development in recent years, and we’re excited for this next step to continue this progression. The development of this site will support the needs of communities within the Precinct,” he said.
The Performing Arts Precinct covers the block of land in the city centre bordered by Armagh Street, Colombo Street, Gloucester Street and New Regent Street, which includes the Court Theatre, the Isaac Theatre Royal and The Piano.
“The plans for additional parking were designed in response to feedback from stakeholders of the Precinct regarding the need for parking for mobility-impaired visitors,” Mr Rendall says.
“We’ve been working closely with the Court Theatre, Isaac Theatre Royal and The Piano to ensure the carpark meets the needs of their patrons and improve accessibility for visitors.”
Council says the open space beside the Court Theatre will be developed for public use. The section will include a green area with seating, planter beds and an activation space to be used for performances and educational opportunities in the Precinct.
Cycle parking will also be installed, and a pathway will connect the carpark to the Court Theatre and The Piano.
Work will begin today and is expected to be completed by the end of the year.
The site is being developed on a temporary basis of approximately five years while the Council decides on the long-term use of the land.
